Where Are They Now? Dylan Rolleri, 2010 Session Assistant

When did you participate in the Undergraduate Session Assistants Program or Senate Fellowship?

I participated in the 2010 Session Assistant Program

Which Senate office were you placed in during your internship?

I was first placed in Senator Hiram Monserrate's office (Chair of Consumer Protection Committee) and then in Senator Antoine Thompson's office (Chair of Environmental Conservation Committee).

Briefly describe your responsibilities/day-to-day activities in your internship office placement.

On a typical day for Senator Monserrate I responded to phone calls, emails and mail from constituents. When I worked for Senator Thompson, I helped research, organize and present data for the Electronic Waste (E-waste) bill for the Senator. This E-waste bill passed the Senate and became effective in 2011. The law requires electronic manufacturers and retail outlets, that sell covered electronics, to accept and recycle their electronic waste from customers. In addition, I prepared memos, talking points and meeting agendas for Senator Thompson, for monthly Environmental Conservation Committee meetings.

Where are you working now? Briefly describe your responsibilities/day-to-day activities in your current place of employment.

I am a project manager with the NYC Department of Citywide Services (DCAS) in their Clean Energy group. We are tasked with the goal of an 80×50 greenhouse gas emission (GHG) reduction target (within line to meet the Paris Agreement) for the City by 2050. Meanwhile our short-term goal is to install 100 MW worth of solar energy on city owned properties by 2025.  My daily tasks include multiple communications with contractors, facility staff and other government entities to ensure solar projects are being installed correctly, in budget and on time.

What did you learn from participating in the New York State Senate internship programs that you have been able to carry over to your new position?

The Senate internship enhanced my communication skills. Whether it was handling a pressing constituent problem in the member’s home district or presenting cost/benefit analysis of potential legislation, it took swift, concise and relevant information to make good decisions. This process kept citizens and stakeholders informed and made them feel appreciated. After the success of my internship I was able to pursue my passion for renewable energy in the private sector and have helped facilitate the expansion of thousands of solar installations and other clean energy projects. Now I'm looking forward to the opportunity to use my government and private sector experience to help solarize NYC.